Need Advice: Moisture Inside My New-to-Me Daytona 116503

[Maksarti]

Hello everyone,

I recently purchased a pre-owned Rolex Daytona 116503, and I'm seeking some advice regarding a potential issue. Here's the situation:

The previous owner bought the watch about a year ago, wore it once, and then stored it in a safe. I acquired it from him roughly a week ago. Wanting to ensure everything was in perfect condition, I took the watch to a reputable watch service to have all the bracelet links reattached. During the visit, I mentioned that I couldn't locate the LEC (Laser-Etched Crown) on the glass.

Two technicians took turns trying to find the LEC, but neither could locate it. They asked if I wanted the case opened for a thorough check, and I agreed, despite having all the necessary papers.

Upon opening the case, we noticed some kind of moisture build-up inside the watch. The technicians attempted to dry it but were unsuccessful. They concluded that the substance was likely lubricant rather than moisture. They then reassembled the watch and handed it back to me.

Now, I'm a bit concerned. Should I take the watch to Rolex since it's still under warranty, or is this build-up normal? Also, I did manage to find the LEC crown at home later on.

Any advice or insights from the community would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

[Ron P]

Yes, you should, whatever it is, it is not normal.

[Tools]

Silicon grease on the o-ring is normal, and everything does look normal.

Third party opening voids the Rolex warranty.

[Ron P]

Strange.
If you use silicon, it is a grease and not silicon oil.
Rolex does not use silicon oil, they use Fomblin, a white teflon like grease. If you have bubbles, like you have on the picture, it could migrate in the movement.

[Maksarti]

Thank you, Ron P and Tools, for your replies. You’ve helped keep me sane through this. I will keep this post updated with any new information I find out.
Due to the distance to the nearest Authorized Dealer (around 400 miles away), I will continue to monitor the watch and take it to the AD as soon as possible.

Thanks again for your support.

[Dirt]

Originally Posted by Tools

Silicon grease on the o-ring is normal, and everything does look normal.

Third party opening voids the Rolex warranty.

This

[brandrea]

Welcome to the forum